ADC Threatens NJC Petition Over Court Ruling

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has vowed to petition the National Judicial Council over a court ruling seeking its deregistration.
The opposition party described the judgment as a threat to democratic principles and political pluralism in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Monday by National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party rejected the ruling.
ADC alleged that the judgment reflected attempts to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general election.
The party argued that only the Independent National Electoral Commission has constitutional authority over party registration matters.
According to ADC, INEC had earlier informed the court that no legal grounds existed for its deregistration.
The party maintained that it had complied with all constitutional and electoral requirements.
ADC also questioned the conduct of Justice Peter Lifu in handling the matter.
It alleged that the court proceeded despite a subsisting appellate court order directing a stay of proceedings.
The party described the development as a serious challenge to democratic governance and the rule of law.
ADC further claimed that political interests were behind efforts to remove opposition parties from the electoral process.
The party expressed concern over the timing of the ruling, noting that it had completed its primary elections.
According to the statement, the party is preparing candidates for various elective positions in 2027.
ADC warned that any attempt to exclude it from the ballot could create political tension nationwide.
The opposition party insisted that voters must retain the freedom to choose from competing political alternatives.
It accused the ruling party of attempting to narrow the democratic space through legal manoeuvres.
ADC said national attention should remain focused on addressing economic hardship and insecurity.
The party pledged to challenge the judgment through all available constitutional and legal channels.
It also promised to defend the rights of its members, candidates and supporters across the country.
ADC urged its supporters to remain calm while awaiting further directives from the party leadership.
The party reaffirmed its determination to participate fully in the 2027 general election.



